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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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U.S. Credit Rating Downgraded as Debt Concerns Mount

Moody’s has officially downgraded the United States’ credit rating from Aaa to Aa1, citing concerns over rising debt and growing interest costs. This marks the end of an era, as Moody’s was the last major ratings agency to maintain a triple-A rating for U.S. sovereign debt.

The downgrade follows years of fiscal deficits and political gridlock, with successive administrations failing to implement measures to curb spending and stabilize the nation’s financial outlook. Moody’s noted that federal deficits are expected to widen, reaching nearly 9% of GDP by 2035, up from 6.4% in 2024. 

The decision has sparked debate among policymakers, with some viewing it as a wake-up call for fiscal responsibility, while others criticize the move as an overreaction. The White House has pushed back against the downgrade, arguing that the U.S. economy remains resilient and that efforts to balance the budget are underway.

Despite the downgrade, Moody’s emphasized that the U.S. retains exceptional credit strengths, including the size and dynamism of its economy and the global role of the U.S. dollar. However, the agency warned that without significant policy changes, the nation’s debt burden could continue to rise, potentially impacting future economic stability.

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